Cut glass" is glass that has been decorated entirely by hand by use of rotating wheels. Cuts are made in an otherwise completely smooth surface of the glass by artisans holding and moving the piece against various sized metal or stone wheels, to produce a predetermined pleasing pattern. Cutting may be combined with other decorative techniques, but "cut glass" usually refers to a glass object that has been decorated entirely by cutting.

The Brilliant Cut Glass era in American extended from 1876 -1917. First introduced by eight enterprising American companies at the 1876 Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia.

This lovely etched and cut glass salt & pepper set, circa 1920-1930, is decorated three etched, five petal blossoms and beveled diamond and triangle designs. The silver plated tops have MOP inserts that contain the holes. The shakers measure 3" in height and were probably made by Pairpoint or Canastata. There are no cracks, chips or repairs; normal wear to silver plate.